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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
passable quality
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "passable quality" is correct and usable in written English
It can be used to describe something that is of acceptable or satisfactory quality, though not exceptional. Example: "The restaurant's food was of passable quality, but I expected more from such a highly rated place."
✓ Grammatically correct
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
57 human-written examples
By contrast, Verizon, AT& T and other carriers that operate conventional circuit-switched public networks provide reliable service with passable voice quality.
News & Media
I could hear the compression on recordings, but the quality is certainly passable.
News & Media
In this model, producers often make the same amount whether the product is at the passable level or of the highest quality.
News & Media
Desserts — a passable apple crisp and a supermarket-quality carrot cake — were disappointing, but our waitress was smart and attentive.
News & Media
While I'm no audiophile, I like to think I have at least a passable ear when it comes to audio quality.
News & Media
Video quality on either one will be passable.
News & Media
Earlier in the month, we reported ArcSoft's SimHD technology, a video enhancement technology that supposedly could take DVD quality video and make it into passable 1080p.
News & Media
The quality of daily and weekly summaries are passable.
News & Media
To appease the right wing of his right wing party who permit him to remain leader, he's had to tamp down all the qualities that made him seem like a passable candidate.
News & Media
Furthermore, while passable, this porterhouse steak couldn't compete with the freshness and quality offered by the best of the big steakhouses.
News & Media
I'm currently the owner of a Toshiba HD DVD player and find it to be passable, though I miss the snappiness of my old DVD player, the image quality is stellar.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "passable quality" when you want to convey that something is acceptable or satisfactory without being exceptional. It's suitable for describing items or services that meet a minimum standard.
Common error
Avoid using "passable quality" in contexts where excellence is expected or desired. Instead, opt for terms like "excellent quality" or "superior quality" to convey a higher standard.
Source & Trust
87%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "passable quality" functions as a descriptive term. It combines an adjective ("passable") with a noun ("quality") to denote a level of adequacy or acceptability without implying excellence. As Ludwig AI has indicated, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English, even if not commonly encountered.
Frequent in
News & Media
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Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "passable quality" describes something that is adequate but not exceptional. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct. The phrase is most suitable for neutral contexts where conveying a sense of just-meeting-expectations is appropriate. When higher standards are desired, alternatives such as "excellent quality" or "superior quality" are preferable. Although not very common, the phrase is readily understood and serves a specific communicative purpose. Therefore, it can be used with confidence when the situation warrants it.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
sufficient quality
Denotes a degree of quality that is enough to fulfill a particular requirement.
acceptable quality
Indicates a standard that meets requirements without necessarily being outstanding.
adequate quality
Suggests a level of quality that is sufficient for a specific purpose or need.
fair quality
Conveys an unbiased and balanced assessment of quality, neither exceptional nor poor.
satisfactory quality
Implies that the quality meets expectations and provides contentment.
up to par
Indicates that the quality meets the expected standard or norm.
reasonable quality
Highlights the fairness or appropriateness of the quality relative to the cost or effort involved.
tolerable quality
Suggests that the quality is barely acceptable but can be endured.
serviceable quality
Emphasizes the functional aspect of the quality, implying it is good enough for its intended use.
mediocre quality
Indicates that the quality is average and not particularly impressive.
FAQs
How can I use "passable quality" in a sentence?
You can use "passable quality" to describe something that is adequate but not exceptional. For example, "The hotel offered rooms of "acceptable quality", though nothing luxurious."
What can I say instead of "passable quality"?
You can use alternatives like ""acceptable quality"", "adequate quality", or "satisfactory quality" depending on the context.
Which is correct, "passable quality" or "decent quality"?
"Passable quality" and "decent quality" are both correct, but "passable" suggests something is just good enough, while "decent" implies a slightly higher level of satisfaction.
What is the difference between "passable quality" and "high quality"?
"Passable quality" indicates that something meets a minimum standard without being exceptional, while "high quality" suggests that something is superior or excellent.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
87%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested